Our Mission

Unbridled Paths is a faith-based nonprofit organization dedicated to transforming lives through the powerful connection between horses and individuals with special needs.

Through equine-assisted therapy, we help individuals develop physical strength, emotional resilience, confidence, and meaningful human connection — all within a safe, supportive, and inclusive environment.

We believe that every individual is fearfully and wonderfully made, and we are committed to creating a place where each person can grow, heal, and thrive.

Unbridled Paths is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to providing equine-assisted therapy for individuals with special needs.

Four people around a small horse in an outdoor setting. One child is riding the horse, with a woman holding a bouquet of flowers and another child adjusting the horse's pouch. The scene appears to be on a farm or riding facility.

Our Story

Unbridled Paths was founded by Nicole Messer, a PATH Certified Therapeutic Riding Instructor whose lifelong love for horses and heart for serving others inspired her to create something truly meaningful.

Her journey began at just 10 years old when she received her first pony a moment that sparked a lifelong passion.

After more than 20 years in commercial real estate, Nicole felt called to bring together her professional experience, her love of horses, and her desire to serve the special needs community.

That vision began to take shape in 2016, when she moved to a five-acre property in Palm Beach Gardens now home to Unbridled Paths.

Today, that vision has become a place of healing, connection, and transformation.

“I am humbled and honored to lead Unbridled Paths and excited to see how God continues to grow this organization to touch lives throughout our community and beyond.”

What we do

At Unbridled Paths, we provide equine-assisted therapeutic riding lessons for children and adults with special needs throughout Palm Beach County.

But our mission goes beyond the arena.

We also support the entire family through optional, no-cost programs designed for siblings, parents, and caregivers. These include educational opportunities, activities, and faith-based small groups that provide encouragement, connection, and community.

Because we believe it’s not just the individual who needs support it’s the entire family.

Young girl with a pink helmet riding a small pony, flanked by two women, one holding the pony's reins, in a stable or barn area.
Four women, including a young girl, are gathered around a horse inside a stable. The young girl is wearing a pink helmet, and the woman next to her has glasses and gray hair. The horse is wearing a black fly mask and is close to the woman with glasses. Everyone is smiling and enjoying the moment.

Our Leadership

Unbridled Paths is supported by a dedicated team of professionals and volunteers who bring experience, compassion, and leadership to our mission.

Nicole Messer
Founder & Executive Director
PATH Certified Therapeutic Riding Instructor

Jeannie Gorman
Vice Chair
Certified Animal Massage & Osteopathic Practitioner

A woman with long blonde hair smiling, standing between two horses against a plain gray background, holding one horse gently by the mane.
A woman with shoulder-length curly blonde hair smiling at the camera, wearing a white sleeveless top.

Katherine Minotta
Secretary
Project Portfolio Leader, Solera Holdings

Patricia Cohen
Treasurer
President, Anchor Financial

Portrait of a woman with curly brown hair, wearing earrings, smiling, with a gray background.
A woman with long gray hair, glasses, and wearing a white collared shirt and black blazer, smiles at the camera against a gray background.

Meet Our Horses

Our horses are at the heart of everything we do. Each one plays a unique role in helping our riders grow, heal, and connect.

Gavin (Warmblood, born 2005)
Also known as “Houdini,” Gavin is a retired jumper with a big personality and an even bigger love for treats. His charm and curiosity make him a favorite in the barn.

Willow (Thoroughbred, born 2011)
A retired racehorse known on the track as Midnight Tango, Willow is gentle, graceful, and one of the sweetest members of our herd.

A young brown horse with a dark mane and tail standing on green grass near a pond, with buildings and trees in the background.
A dark brown horse standing on a grassy field with trees in the background.

Buttercup (Miniature Horse, born 2007)
Small in size but big in personality, Buttercup loves meeting new friends and sneaking treats from pockets whenever possible.

Prince (Quarter Horse, born 2004)
Originally from Virginia, Prince is enjoying his retirement in Florida while continuing to help riders learn and grow — at a much more relaxed pace.

Small brown and white pony standing on green grass with green bushes and trees in the background on a sunny day.
A brown horse with a white star-shaped mark on its forehead, wearing a black halter, standing on green grass with trees and a trailer in the background.